Indonesia Stands by Independent Umrah Amid Business Protests
The Indonesian government, through the Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, reaffirmed that the push toward a legalized independent Umrah is not only unavoidable but also designed to protect pilgrims. Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak emphasized that the policy aligns with Law Number 14 of 2025 concerning the Organization of Hajj and Umrah, despite objections from industry groups and a planned challenge at the Constitutional Court.
Legal Basis and Government Rationale
According to Dahnil, the legalization of independent Umrah is a regulatory response to evolving international practices, including Saudi policy. He noted that Saudi Arabia had opened opportunities for independent Umrah even before the law revision took effect. The government argues that formalizing independent Umrah helps safeguard pilgrims and brings the sector under a consistent regulatory framework.
Regulatory Protections for Pilgrims
A key feature of the new framework is the use of digital identification cards for pilgrims seeking independent Umrah. Dahnil indicated that this digital system will enable better tracking, safety measures, and service standards. He urged Umrah service providers, specifically PPIUs (Penyelenggara Ibadah Umrah dan Haji Khusus), to stay current with regulatory changes to ensure compliant and high-quality offerings.
Industry Responses and Possible Legal Challenges
Not all stakeholders are convinced. Nur Faizin, chairman of the Amanah Umrah and Hajj Association (Ashuri) and spokesperson for 13 allied associations, signaled plans to challenge certain articles of Law 14/2025 at the Constitutional Court. He warned that independent Umrah could have unintended negative consequences if implemented without comprehensive derivative regulations.
Concerns Raised by Proponents of Change
Opponents point to potential risks, including misuse by individuals seeking to travel to Arabia for work, inadequate safety guarantees, and threats to the sustainability of established Hajj service providers. Faizin argued that a rapid shift to independent Umrah could destabilize the ecosystem built around traditional PPIUs and the broader Hajj travel industry.
Government’s Open Stance and Future Steps
Dahnil acknowledged the protesters’ concerns and stressed that the government will tighten controls to mitigate moral hazards. He cited a specific prohibition in Law 14/2025: individuals without a valid PPIU permit may not mobilize others for Umrah, labeling noncompliant mobilization a criminal offense. The aim, he said, is to protect pilgrims from the earliest stages of the process.
What This Means for Prospective Pilgrims and Travel Entrepreneurs
For Indonesians considering independent Umrah, the new framework offers a formal pathway with standardized protections. For travel entrepreneurs, the policy underscores the need to modernize operations and embrace digital tools. Dahnil’s remarks suggest a vision of a more transparent, competitive market where regulation and innovation go hand in hand, even as stakeholders push back with legal challenges.
Looking Ahead
As the Constitutional Court weighs the potential challenges to Law 14/2025, the government appears prepared to defend its approach as a measure to safeguard pilgrims and harmonize with Saudi regulations. The coming months will likely see continued political and legal debates, as industry associations and policymakers navigate the delicate balance between opportunity, safety, and market stability.
